Get a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Review by T.V.

"I highly recommend BB&G ... I would give 10 stars if I could!"

Review by G.V.

"I am so very pleased with the representation from BB&G!"

Review by M.S.

"The attorneys at BBG were exceptional. The outcome was better than we hoped."

Review by R.G.

"From the moment I contacted this firm I was treated like family."

Review by A.H.

"We couldn't be happier with the outcome or the excellent service."

Review by V.A.

"We felt very secure and confident with their representation."

Review by J.P.

"Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is a legal force to be reckoned with."

Review by T.Z.

"I'm happy with how they handled my case and recommend giving them a call!"

Review by K.N.

"Very easy process with the help of these amazing people. Very happy outcome!"

FREE CONSULTATION

GET A FREE CONSULTATION

Our Lawyers

Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyers for Spinal Cord Injuries

A spinal cord injury at work can change everything in an instant. Workers across Chicago, from ironworkers on high-rises in the Loop to warehouse employees near the I-55 corridor in Bridgeport, face the daily risk of catastrophic back and spinal injuries. When that injury happens, knowing your rights under Illinois law is the first step toward protecting your future. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg represents injured workers throughout Chicago and the surrounding area, fighting for the full benefits the Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer system is designed to deliver.

How Illinois Workers’ Compensation Law Covers Spinal Cord Injuries on the Job
Common Workplace Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Chicago
What Benefits Are Available to Chicago Workers with Spinal Cord Injuries
The Financial Reality of a Spinal Cord Injury and Why Full Benefits Matter
Steps to Take After a Spinal Cord Injury at a Chicago Workplace
Why Spinal Cord Injury Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Often Disputed
FAQs About Chicago Workers’ Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries

How Illinois Workers’ Compensation Law Covers Spinal Cord Injuries on the Job

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305) covers spinal cord injuries that happen at work, regardless of who was at fault. You do not need to prove your employer was negligent. If your injury arose out of and in the course of your employment, you have a valid claim.

Under Section 2 of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305/2), an employer in Illinois who does not fall within specific exemptions is required to provide compensation for accidental injuries that employees sustain on the job. This means your employer’s insurance carrier, not you, is responsible for covering your medical costs and lost wages from the moment your injury occurs.

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can result from a single traumatic event, such as a fall from scaffolding, or they can develop over time from repetitive strain. Both types are covered under Illinois law. Construction workers near projects along Wacker Drive, forklift operators in industrial parks on the South Side, and warehouse workers near O’Hare International Airport all fall within the protection of this law.

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center’s 2025 Facts and Figures report, the most recent estimate of the annual incidence of traumatic spinal cord injury is approximately 54 cases per one million people in the United States, which equals about 18,421 new traumatic SCI cases each year. A meaningful share of those injuries happen in occupational settings, making workers’ compensation claims a critical lifeline for affected employees.

Section 8(a) of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act requires your employer to pay for all necessary first aid, medical, surgical, and hospital services, as well as treatment, instruction, and training needed for your physical, mental, and vocational rehabilitation. If your spinal cord injury leaves you unable to care for yourself, the Act also requires the employer to pay for maintenance or institutional care. These are not optional benefits, they are legal obligations your employer must meet.

Common Workplace Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Chicago

Spinal cord injuries on Chicago job sites happen in several distinct ways, and identifying the cause matters for your claim. The cause of your injury affects what evidence you need, which parties may be liable, and what benefits apply.

Falls from height are the most frequent cause of severe occupational spinal injuries in Chicago. Roofers in Pilsen, ironworkers on high-rise construction projects downtown, and painters working on elevated platforms all face this risk daily. A fall from a scaffold, ladder, or elevated platform can fracture vertebrae, herniate discs, or sever the spinal cord entirely.

Being struck by a falling object is another major cause. Construction workers near active crane operations, employees in manufacturing facilities, and workers in steel mills on the Southeast Side can suffer catastrophic spinal trauma when heavy equipment or materials fall on them.

Machinery accidents, vehicle collisions on the job, and crush injuries also cause serious spinal cord damage. A truck driver delivering goods through the Chicago metro area who is involved in a collision, or a factory worker caught in industrial machinery, can sustain injuries ranging from herniated discs to complete paralysis.

Repetitive overexertion is a slower but equally serious cause. Workers who lift heavy loads repeatedly, such as those in Chicago’s busy food processing or warehousing sectors, can develop degenerative spinal conditions over time. Illinois workers’ compensation covers these gradual-onset injuries, not just single-incident traumas.

Understanding the cause of your injury also opens the door to third-party claims. Under Section 5(b) of the Illinois Workers’ Occupational Diseases Act (820 ILCS 310/5), if a party other than your employer contributed to your injury, you may pursue a separate civil lawsuit against that third party while still receiving workers’ compensation benefits. This is a critical distinction that a skilled workers’ compensation attorney can help you evaluate.

What Benefits Are Available to Chicago Workers with Spinal Cord Injuries

Illinois workers’ compensation provides several categories of benefits for spinal cord injury victims. The specific benefits you receive depend on the severity of your injury and whether it results in temporary or permanent disability.

Medical benefits cover all reasonable and necessary treatment. Under Section 8(a) of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, your employer must pay for emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and any assistive equipment you need. This includes ongoing care. If your injury requires a spinal cord stimulator, wheelchair, or home modifications, those costs fall within the scope of your employer’s obligation.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits apply when your injury prevents you from working during recovery. Under Section 8(b) of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305/8), wage replacement benefits are calculated at two-thirds of your average weekly wage. So if you earned $1,200 per week before your injury, your TTD benefit would be approximately $800 per week while you recover.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits apply when your spinal cord injury permanently prevents you from performing any work for which a reasonably stable job market exists. Under 820 ILCS 305/8 of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, workers with catastrophic injuries such as paralysis, limb loss, or severe neurological damage may automatically qualify for PTD benefits. PTD benefits continue for life, adjusted annually based on changes in the state’s average weekly wage.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits apply when your injury causes lasting impairment but you retain some ability to work. Illinois uses specific formulas and schedules to calculate PPD awards, and the value of your claim depends heavily on medical evidence and the opinions of treating physicians.

Vocational rehabilitation is also available. If your spinal cord injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, your employer may be required to fund retraining for a different occupation. This benefit is especially important for physically demanding workers, such as a Chicago ironworker or concrete laborer, who can no longer perform their trade after a serious spinal injury.

The Financial Reality of a Spinal Cord Injury and Why Full Benefits Matter

The financial impact of a spinal cord injury is enormous, and workers’ compensation benefits must be pursued aggressively to cover those costs. Settling for less than you are owed can leave you unable to pay for care you will need for years or decades.

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center’s 2025 data, the average yearly expenses and estimated lifetime costs directly attributable to traumatic spinal cord injury vary greatly based on education, neurological impairment, and pre-injury employment history, and indirect costs averaged $95,309 per year in 2024 dollars. These figures do not include wages lost during recovery or the cost of home modifications.

Home modifications alone can be substantial. Wheelchair ramps, widened doorways, accessible bathrooms, and specialized vehicles are common needs for spinal cord injury survivors. Your Illinois workers’ compensation claim should account for all of these costs, both present and future.

Employers and their insurance carriers often dispute the extent of spinal cord injuries. They may send you to an Independent Medical Examination (IME) physician of their choosing, who may downplay your disability or recommend a return to work before you are medically ready. This is a common tactic, and having a legal advocate in your corner makes a real difference in the outcome of your claim.

Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, attorney fees in workers’ compensation cases are regulated and capped. In most contested cases, attorney fees are limited to 20% of the compensation recovered. No fees are charged on undisputed medical expenses under Section 8 of the Act. This means you can get legal representation without paying anything upfront, and your attorney only gets paid when you do.

If you suffered a spinal cord injury working anywhere in the Chicago area, from a construction site near Millennium Park to a factory in Cicero, contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg at (312) 222-0010 for a free consultation. Our firm handles workers’ compensation cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover benefits for you.

Steps to Take After a Spinal Cord Injury at a Chicago Workplace

The actions you take immediately after a workplace spinal cord injury directly affect your ability to recover full benefits. Missing a step can give your employer’s insurer a reason to dispute your claim.

Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, you generally have 45 days to give notice of a workplace injury to your employer. Failing to report within this window can jeopardize your claim. Even if your symptoms seem manageable at first, report the incident right away. Spinal cord injuries can worsen rapidly.

Seek immediate medical attention. Go to an emergency room if needed. Under Section 8(a) of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, you have the right to choose your own doctor. Your employer may maintain a Panel of Physicians, which is a posted list of approved providers. If your employer has a valid panel, you must initially treat with a panel physician, but you have the right to a second opinion and to change providers under certain circumstances.

Document everything. Keep records of all medical visits, diagnoses, treatment plans, and communications with your employer or their insurance company. Photograph the accident scene if you are able, or ask a coworker to do so. Witness statements from people who saw the accident happen at a Chicago job site, whether near Navy Pier, in the Pullman industrial district, or anywhere else in the city, can be critical evidence.

Contact a workers’ compensation attorney before speaking with the insurance company. Insurers may contact you quickly after your injury and ask for a recorded statement. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. An attorney can handle all communications on your behalf and make sure you do not inadvertently harm your case.

File your claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). The IWCC is the state agency that oversees workers’ compensation disputes in Illinois. You have three years from the date of your injury, or two years from the last payment of compensation, to file an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the IWCC. Missing this deadline means losing your right to benefits entirely.

Why Spinal Cord Injury Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Often Disputed

Spinal cord injury claims are among the most valuable and most contested in the Illinois workers’ compensation system. Insurance carriers have a financial incentive to reduce or deny these claims, and they use several strategies to do so.

Causation disputes are common. An insurer may argue that your spinal condition is pre-existing and not caused by your work accident. This is especially frequent in cases involving degenerative disc disease or conditions that developed gradually. Illinois law does allow recovery for aggravation of a pre-existing condition. If your job made a pre-existing spinal problem worse, you still have a valid claim.

Disputes over the extent of disability are also frequent. An employer’s IME doctor may rate your disability lower than your treating physician does. The gap between these ratings can translate to tens of thousands of dollars in disputed benefits. Medical evidence, including imaging, surgical records, and expert testimony, is critical to winning these disputes before the IWCC.

Return-to-work pressure is another tactic. Insurers may push for a light-duty return before you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Returning to work too early after a spinal cord injury can worsen your condition and undermine your claim. Your treating doctor’s restrictions should govern your return, not the insurance company’s schedule.

A workers’ compensation lawyer who understands how Illinois insurers operate can anticipate these tactics and build a case that withstands them. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg has represented injured workers throughout Chicago for decades, helping clients secure the medical care and financial benefits they are owed under Illinois law. Call us at (312) 222-0010 or reach out online to speak with a Chicago personal injury lawyer about your spinal cord injury claim today.

FAQs About Chicago Workers’ Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries

Can I receive workers’ compensation benefits for a spinal cord injury that developed gradually over time?

Yes. Illinois workers’ compensation covers both sudden traumatic injuries and conditions that develop gradually due to repetitive strain or overexertion. If your spinal cord injury developed because of the physical demands of your job, such as repeated heavy lifting or years of working in a physically stressful position, you can file a claim. The key is establishing that your employment was a contributing cause of your condition. An attorney can help you gather the medical evidence needed to support a gradual-onset spinal injury claim.

What if my employer says my spinal injury was caused by a pre-existing condition?

This is one of the most common defenses insurers use in spinal cord injury cases. Illinois workers’ compensation law covers the aggravation of pre-existing conditions. If your job made an existing spinal problem worse, or accelerated its progression, you are still entitled to benefits. Your medical records and the opinions of your treating physicians are the most important tools for countering this argument. Do not assume a pre-existing condition disqualifies your claim without speaking to an attorney first.

How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim for a spinal cord injury in Illinois?

Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, you generally have three years from the date of your injury, or two years from the date of your last compensation payment, whichever is later, to file an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. For gradual-onset injuries, the clock typically starts when you knew or should have known that your condition was work-related. Missing this deadline results in losing your right to benefits, so acting promptly is essential.

Can I sue my employer in addition to filing a workers’ compensation claim for my spinal cord injury?

In most cases, Illinois workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy against your employer, meaning you cannot also sue them in civil court. However, if a third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or negligent driver, contributed to your spinal cord injury, you may be able to pursue a separate personal injury lawsuit against that party. This third-party claim is separate from your workers’ compensation benefits and can allow you to recover damages for pain and suffering, which workers’ compensation does not cover. An attorney can evaluate whether a third-party claim applies in your situation.

What happens if my workers’ compensation claim for a spinal cord injury is denied?

A denial is not the end of your claim. You have the right to dispute a denial by filing an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission and proceeding through the arbitration process. An arbitrator will hear evidence from both sides and issue a decision. If you disagree with the arbitrator’s ruling, you can appeal to the full IWCC, and further appeals can go to the Illinois Circuit Court and Appellate Court. Having an experienced attorney represent you through this process significantly improves your chances of a successful outcome. Contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg at (312) 222-0010 to discuss your options.

This content is advertising material prepared by Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, located at 351 W. Hubbard Street, Suite 810, Chicago, IL 60654. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases. Each case is unique and results depend on the specific facts and legal issues involved. Viewing this content does not create an attorney-client relationship.

More Resources About Work Injury Types

The overall experience I had with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg was the kind that everyone should receive from any firm.

The staff stayed in contact with me via phone and email, they were very knowledgeable, they made sure I understood what was going on at all times, they answered all of my questions, were transparent, and definitely exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them.

- Brandon Spivey

The level of care, attentiveness, empathy and concern relating to my case when dealing with Briskman Briskman and Greenberg surpassed my expectations.

They were extremely knowledgeable and fair in all matters related. They exemplified excellent customer service and care. They kept me inform and updated every step of the way and any questions I had they answered. I highly recommend using them as I would again.

- Joshua Payton

I was put to ease with the professionalism at Briskman and Briskman.

Paul Greenberg especially put my mind to rest and within a years time I have settled my case and I am very satisfied with the outcome. My injury was devastating but working with this law firm has put a lot of stressful nights to rest.

- Nakia Childs

I needed a personal injury lawyer and Gavin and his team went above and beyond.

They made the process simple and helped me in every step of the way. What I really appreciate is that they are straightforward and are quick to respond to my questions and any issues from a text or phone call. They as well continuously checked up on me. I'm happy with how they handled my case and would recommend giving them a call!

- Ted Zakrzewski

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers (BBG) is a legal team you want on your side.

They handled my case in a professional, sensitive and very competent manner. The staff exhibits expertise in the legal realm and provided excellent customer support and care. Thanks BBG for your help with navigating a very sensitive and challenging case for my family.

- Robin Albritton

If you were in an accident and need an excellent lawyer, talk to Paul!!

Very nice and professional lawyer that extremely cares about their clients. Fingers crossed I'm never in an accident ever again but if so, I' would definitely, 10/10 use Paul again!

- Danny S.

I am so very pleased with the representation from BB&G!

Robert Briskman handled my injury case very well. Funny and understanding personality and he took the time to explain everything in detail of the entire case. It was wonderful working with him. I would recommend BB&G to anyone and for myself again in the future.

- Geneva Vanderbilt

From the moment I contacted this law firm I was treated like family.

Gavin Pearlman was honest and upfront with me throughout the process. No surprises and never kept me hanging. I strongly recommend These attorneys for your needs.

- Ron Gaber

I cannot say enough good things about the attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers.

They were extremely responsive, professional, and compassionate throughout the entire process.Their negotiations skills were exceptional, and they were able to secure a settlement that far exceeded my expectations.I am grateful to have had such a dedicated team